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Student Resolution Advocate

The Student Resolution Advocate serves as a neutral and confidential resource to assist students, faculty, and staff in resolving academic and non-academic concerns. Whether you’re facing a conflict, navigating college policies, or seeking guidance on a specific issue, the advocate provides information, informal mediation, and problem-solving support. From academic concerns and financial aid questions to policy clarification and dispute resolution, this service is here to help you find a fair and constructive path forward.

Contact

E-mail: Ombudsman@jccmi.edu

Student Resolution Advocate
Victoria Snyder
517.990.1382

Students at Jackson College are permitted to appeal decisions using the various appeal processes by submitting an appeal in writing to the Student Resolution Advocate.

Academic Complaints and Appeals

Students may dispute classroom-related matters (i.e., grades) within four weeks of the semester following the class end date. The student must have a formal meeting with their instructor to address the concern, as stated in the academic complaint process. If a resolution cannot be reached, the student may submit an appeal to the student resolution advocate using the academic appeal form.

Distance Education Complaints

Complaints concerning JC’s distance education activities regulated by Michigan’s Higher Education Authorization and Distance Education Reciprocal Exchange Act (2015 PA 45) may be directed to the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, Corporations, Securities & Commercial Licensing Bureau, P.O. Box 30018, Lansing, MI 48909.

Financial Aid Appeals

Jackson College follows federal, state, lender, and third-party payer regulations for financial aid eligibility and amounts. In cases where professional judgment applies, students may submit a financial aid appeal to the Student Resolution Advocate before the semester’s midpoint.

Student Record Appeals

Students have one semester to dispute registration transactions, transfer evaluations, residency charges, and other student record matters. They must first seek a resolution with the registrar; if unresolved, they may appeal to the Student Resolution Advocate using the non-academic appeal form.

Billing and Contract Appeals

Disputes regarding bills and contracts must first be addressed with the College business office one semester following the charge in question. If a resolution cannot be reached, the student may submit an appeal to the student resolution advocate using the nonacademic appeal form.


Below are the forms you may need for a variety of circumstances throughout your time at Jackson College.

  • Academic Complaint Form: This form is typically used to dispute an overall or individual assignment grade.
  • Financial Aid Appeal: This form is typically used for the loss of Financial Aid eligibility.
  • Non-Academic Appeal Form: This form is typically used to dispute registration or billing issues resulting from and extenuating circumstance or disciplinary action that results in probation, suspension, or expulsion or withdrawal.
  • Student Emergency Fund Application: Emergency funds help Jackson College students overcome one-time emergencies that could hinder their education.

What appeal form is most appropriate for me?

Financial Aid Appeals are generally for extenuating circumstances regarding loss of financial aid due to not making satisfactory academic progress (SAP). SAP is determined by grade point average (GPA), completion rate, or credit limit.  Although rare there is a possibility that you can appeal the amount of loan that you receive, however, that cannot exceed the federal allowable limit.

Non-Academic Appeals are generally for extenuating circumstances regarding billing and balances, registration issues and withdrawal with exception.

Academic Complaint Appeals are generally for grade related issues in a course. Before an academic complaint can be processed the student must first have a meeting with the instructor to discuss their grade issue.

What do I need to turn in with my appeal?

For financial aid and Non-Academic appeals this depends on your extenuating circumstance is applicable to your appeal (i.e., providing a doctor’s note if the reason for your appeal is a medical circumstance). Typically to make a change there needs to be documentation relevant to the situation with specific date(s) and an explanation of how it affected your class(es). The forms outline the criteria for appeal and the documentation required.

How should I prepare for my academic appeal?

To prepare for an academic appeal you must first meet with the instructor to discuss your grade issue.  If there is no resolution you can fill out the complaint form.  Make sure to include specific dates and any written communication and documentation that you have. It is also important that you clearly explain what outcome you are seeking (i.e. I want my 3rd quiz regraded).

How long does the appeal process take?

Completed appeals take 10-15 business days from the time they are received for processing.  A business day is defined as a day in which Jackson College is open.

How will I be notified of the outcome of the appeal?

The outcome of your appeal will be sent to your JC email account.

What do I do about a sexual harassment or discrimination complaint?

The Student Resolution Advocate is not involved in sexual harassment and discrimination complaints. To file a formal complaint you must complete the Discrimination and Harassment Complaint Form and submit that form to Human Resources.

What happens if this is appeal is not approved?

Since every appeal is unique it would depend on the individual. You are encouraged to reach out to the Student Resolution Advocate if you are unsure of next steps available to you.